In recent years, there have been some changes in the world we live in. Due to the developments in technology, many devices have been invented. Also, this advancement has offered luxuries for humans. In the engineering field, several file formats are being used. The Gerber file format and DXF file format are some of these formats.
Today, we offer details on these two formats and how to convert them. We will give guidelines on how to convert Gerber to DXF online and how to convert DXF to Gerber.
What is a DXF File?
Before we talk about the conversion of DXF file into another type of file, we should know what this file is. DXF refers to Drawing Exchange Format or Drawing Interchange Format. In the year 1982, Autodesk developed this file format as an aspect of the AutoCAD 1.0 software. This file format was meant to be a CAD data exchange program which enables the data exchange between AutoCAD and other software.
In addition, the DXF file is compatible with a lot of programs. This indicates that it was created in such a way that users can transfer data between CAD and other types of software. DXF functions according to ASCII and as such, it can contain text and images. One of the benefits is that this file format is simply great for many applications. It has been very useful to both engineers and designers.
The main purpose of the DXF file format is to share data between two software applications Therefore, this helps users to easily share across platforms. Designers love to use the DXF file format during the 3D modeling process. There are some unique things about this file format and one of them is that it is very accurate after converting it. Also, DXF is an accepted standard in the construction and engineering fields.
A good number of CAD program support the DXF file andthis makes it a preferred option for several computers. Also, the DXF file format enables collaborations between teams.
What is a Gerber File Format?
Since we are focusing on how to convert DXF to Gerber and vice versa, we need to know what a Gerber file is. Gerber files are majorly used in printed circuit board layout. Each layer of a PCB layout is usually place in its Gerber file. This file format makes use of the ASCII text file to store data. The data stored in a Gerber file is human-readable.
The Gerber format has no single document but it comprises the standard for PCB production. This file has details that guide a manufacturer on the PCB manufacturing process. Also, this file format uses the ASCII vector format to define 2D binary images.
Today’s Gerber files may comprise metadata such as number of copper layers, solder mask, silkscreen, and some other important data. With a Gerber file viewer, it is easy to view what is in the Gerber file. The Gerber file describes what a PCB image comprises. Also, this file serve as input files to printing devices like AOI machines and photoplotters in order to compare or print PCB images.
Many engineers and PCB designers make use of the Gerber file when developing electronic circuits. Due to the usefulness of Gerber, it has become popular among PCB designers. GBR. Is Geber’s standard file extension, although you can make use of other extensions.
Why do you Need to Convert DXF to Gerber?
In most scenarios when designing a circuit board, a mechanical CAD software like AutoCAD is usually the only software available. This has been the case for a while now. It happens this way because mechanical CAD software programs are capable of generating a DXF file. Also, A DXF file comprises the necessary data needed to fabricate a circuit board.
However, due to some certain reasons, PCB manufacturers don’t prefer to use the DXF format. One of such reasons is that the DXF file requires more time to interpret. PCB manufacturers usually end up spending extra time to interpret the file. Also, there is a possibility for error or mistake to occur.
However, the Gerber file is a preferred choice among circuit board manufacturers since it eliminates errors and enables faster production. These are some of the reasons for converting DXF to Gerber.
How to Convert DXF to Gerber Online
In order to achieve a good outcome for DXF to Gerber converter online, you need to simplify the design. DXF files offer support to many entity types like Regions, Blocks/Inserts, TrueType fonts, and 3D objects among others. The challenge here is how to convert these entity types into a Gerber file that has X, Y coordinates and shapes.
Therefore, it is advisable to use these basic DXF entities to create layouts to achieve an easy and accurate Gerber conversion.
Basic DXF entities
Polylines: These are connected arcs and lines with different widths. Polylines are used to design about 80% of RF/PCB layout. You can use polylines to draw traces for connecting pads. Also, polylines that have 0-width are popularly used for creating filled boundaries. It is possible to use this entity for creating donut and square pads.
Text: This entity is ideal for drawing labels and silkscreen. You can use stick fonts to achieve the best outcome. A good number of DXF to Gerber converter online may support TrueType fonts. But, internal shapes are likely to appear.
Circles: Generally, circles are for drawing round pads.
Blocks: You can use blocks to form a hierarchy in a design. Typically, blocks are separate drawings that are input in a parent drawing. When inserting blocks, it is important to rotate, scale and transform them in a direction.
Inserts: It is possible to insert blocks many times.
How to Prevent some Common Mistakes during DXF to Gerber Conversion
Some errors do occur when converting the DXF file to a Gerber file. Here are ways you can avoid this from happening.
Draw a closed boundary to create a filled area in Gerber
When creating a filled area, it is advisable you craw a close boundary having 0-width polyline. This boundary should be continuous and should never self-intersect. There are stringent rules associated with Gerber.
Create a clear area in a filled polygon
There is nothing like hole detection in a Gerber format. However, the Gerber data offers supports to composites which enable users to define what should be dark or clear when using the Gerber commands. Create individual DXF layers for every polarity change. This is a reliable method to specify a composite Gerber file.
An example is that you must create two layers if you need a dark rectangular boundary that has many clear holes. There should be the rectangular boundary in a layer while another one should have the holes. Make a composite Gerber merge and specify the polarity for every layer when converting DXF to Gerber.
Don’t make use of solid hatches in AutoCAD drawing
Most times, solid hatches appear filled and nice in AutoCAD. But, experts have warned against using them in AutoCAD drawing. If at all you need to use solid hatches, be certain the DFX to Gerber converter you are using enables solid hatches.
How to Convert Gerber to DXF Online
You can convert Gerber to DXF online. There are ways to go around this. But, the best way to do this is to download a program that can carry out the conversion. The reaConverter can help you with this. All you need is to download this software and install. It is very easy to use as it requires no skill or expertise.
- After you have installed the converter, load the Gerber files you are converting into DXF. reaConverter works in a different way. Unlike other online converters, this software enables batch conversion. Therefore, this helps you to save the effort and time used in repeating the same operations.
- Choose Gerber from a folder. Alternatively, you can drag and drop the Gerber files in the reaConverter window. Click on Saving options and choose where you would like to save your DXF files. Furthermore, you can make some additional editing to the images you already prepared for conversion.
- Choose DXF as the output format. You will find some buttons at the end of the Converter window. Click on any of the buttons you need.
- Click on your Start button and then the process of conversion would begin immediately.
- The right software can help you convert Gerber to DXF online. Apart from reaConverter, we have some software programs that can do this for you. The reaConverter online is great for converting a few Gerber files. Another program that can convert separate Gerber files to DXF files is the Gerberview.
Conclusion
DXF file supports several CAD programs which makes it the right choice for sharing data. One of the major issues designers face is how to convert DXF to Gerber online. The appropriate DXF to Gerber converter makes the whole process simple. This article touched some important details on how to convert Gerber to DXF.
